In recent times, you might be seeing a lot of collagen creams and consumable supplements in the stores. The big supplement brands are claiming to offer younger-looking, healthy skin and less joint pain with stronger bones.
Right now, collagen has become a widely sought-after ingredient in the beauty and wellness communities.
However, there is no concrete proof regarding the usefulness or effectiveness of collagen. A question is rendered in the market:
“Do these products really work?”
Here, in this article, we will find the answer to this. But in order to get the answer, first, we need to have detailed knowledge about collagen.
What Is Collagen?
Collagen is a particular type of protein that is produced in the body. It is the main structural protein which is responsible for forming the connective tissues throughout our body. Skin, bones, tendons, muscles, and ligaments contain this protein.
This is the reason behind the increasing popularity of all those bottled versions of collagen, which are mainly made of animal protein. You might be surprised to know that 80% of your skin is made up of collagen.
This is responsible for keeping your skin elastic. However, with growing age, our body reduces the production of proteins. Consider collagen as the ropes of protein in your skin. When you are young, those ropes remain tight, and with aging, their ends start to fray. Our body can not cope with the quick breakdown of collagen, and a deficiency shows in a number of ways.
When we reach the age of 20, we start to lose 1% of collagen every year with increased aging. As a result of that, we end up with dull and dry skin with wrinkles. Apart from that, we also suffer from joint issues. Supplements contain laboratory-made protein hydrolysate that contains a smaller amino acid chain. And as a result of it, they get digested and absorbed into the bloodstream really quickly.
Does Supplements Work?
As per a number of studies, individuals who consume collagen supplements for several months can get to see improved skin elasticity along with reduced signs of aging. It means less roughness and sprinkles.
Apart from these, a lot of individuals have also shown that consuming collagen might increase the density in bones that get weakened with age. Taking supplements can also improve back, joint, and knee pain.
As per a 2019 literature review that was published in the Journal of Drugs In Dermatology, it is possible to get some of the benefits of collagen that we have mentioned above from double-blind placebo-controlled studies, the review has found some data in order to support the theory that supplements can increase skin electricity as part of a regular skin care routine, overall hydration, and density.
Still, in order to claim the surety of all the effects, a lot more evidence is required. As per the health experts, all those studies are not enough to prove that collagen has actual health benefits.
At the same time, a lot of health experts also have prescribed supplements to a number of their patients and witnessed noticeable benefits in the patients’ health. The patients get more skin firmness, elasticity, and hydration.
The Best Way To Absorb Collagen
When it comes to absorbing this protein, it can be a tricky game. Especially when it is the natural collagen that is a huge molecule, absorbing it becomes tougher.
In comparison to the natural proteins, small molecules can pass through our intestinal barrier and also into the bloodstream more easily. A good supplement should do that; only then will they be able to label themselves as good supplements.
As per the theory, the body can utilize absorbed collagen molecules, particularly in those areas that require repairing the most. You might have noticed a sudden interest in any fad; wellness and beauty companies have jumped on the bandwagon really quickly.
The market has topical creams, powders, pills, and liquids that are promised to strengthen your bones and beautify your skin. Popular brands include Great Lakes Wellness and Vital Proteins
Some research and application of collagen products show considerable results in improving skin hydration and fewer fine lines, along with improved bone and joint health. Still, a lot more evidence is required to medically claim that these products actually work.